Are you thinking about attending the Emerging Arts Leaders Symposium this year, but maybe aren’t quite sure what to expect? After being a first-time EALS attendee in 2016, and now as part of this year’s EALS Executive Committee, here’s my attempt to give a you a quick glimpse into what EALS is really like.
Whether you’re a music or museum enthusiast, a theater or dance master, or even an arts manager in training, there’s going to be a panel or workshop at EALS that is right up your alley. The moment you walk into Katzen Arts Center you’ll realize you’re surrounded by people who care about the arts and are devoted to learning more about them. You’ll find a mix of practicing artists, well-experienced arts leaders, students from the AU Arts Management program and several other universities from around the country, a handful of arts fans, and some of the nation’s finest arts managers.
Upon arriving, you’ll be greeted by several AU Arts Management students, and you’ll sign up for the panel sessions and lunch workshops that you’re interested in. Lunch workshops fill up quickly!
Throughout the day, you’ll have opportunities to network with fellow attendees, but in the morning we’ll all partake in a great connecting activity. This is especially helpful for making a Symposium friend and adding a few names to your future arts leader contact list.
The morning then progresses with a keynote in the Recital Hall (this year’s keynote is the accomplished arts leader Seema Sueko) followed by a panel session of your choosing. There’s always an opportunity to ask questions at the end of panel sessions, so be sure to take notes.
A quick note on lunch – I highly recommend purchasing a boxed lunch along with your ticket (you can choose between a Cosi sandwich or salad), since the Katzen Arts Center is not conveniently located to many restaurants. There are a few on-campus options, but they will be limited as the university will be on Spring Break. You’re also welcome to bring a lunch if you prefer.
During lunch you’ll have an opportunity to participate in either a resume review with one of our friends from the Emerging Arts Leaders DC or attend a lunch workshop. And, you’ll have plenty of time to eat lunch and join in on these workshops too!
In the afternoon, you’ll choose a second panel session to attend before moving to the Recital Hall for a great closing from Americans for the Arts’ (AFTA) Bob Lynch. The day will wrap up with a reception to kickoff. Arts Advocacy Day.
Extra EALS Pro Tips:
Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself! Everyone at EALS is there to meet new people and engage in discussion around the arts. A great starting point is to ask, “What’s your area of arts interest?”
FREE parking in the Katzen Arts Center garage (need we say more?)
Dress is business casual and bring business cards if you have them. You never know who you might meet!
View directions and a map to Katzen Arts Center at http://www.american.edu/cas/museum/visiting.cfm
The closest metro stop is Tenleytown on the Red Line. There’s a free AU Shuttle bus you can ride from the metro to Katzen. It picks you up at Albemarle St. and 40th St.